Chelsea Football Club have confirmed the appointment of Liam Rosenior as their new head coach, following the sudden departure of Enzo Maresca. The 41-year-old London-born manager joins from French Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, signing a substantial six-and-a-half year contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032.
A Dream Move for the New Boss
Speaking at a press conference in France, Rosenior acknowledged the significant step up in moving from Strasbourg to Chelsea, a club also owned by Chelsea's parent company BlueCo. "The reality is Strasbourg is not on the level as Chelsea," he stated. "There are certain clubs you just cannot turn down. I hope the [Strasbourg] fans can see that."
Rosenior, who enjoyed a 16-year playing career in England, described the opportunity to manage a "world class" club like Chelsea as something he had "always dreamed of." He expressed confidence in his readiness for the challenge, asserting, "If I didn't think I was ready, I wouldn't have accepted it."
From Derby to Chelsea: Rosenior's Managerial Journey
The new Chelsea boss began his managerial career at Derby County, where he first took the top job on an interim basis. His first permanent managerial role was at Hull City in the Championship. During an 18-month tenure at Hull, he guided the team to the brink of the play-offs before being dismissed by the owner, who cited a difference in footballing philosophy.
He leaves Strasbourg seventh in Ligue 1 after 17 matches and is widely regarded as one of Europe's brightest young coaching talents. In an official statement, Chelsea praised his abilities, saying: "Liam has shown that he can build teams with a clear way of playing while setting the highest standards with players on and off the pitch. He has the ability to get the best out of this squad quickly."
Following Maresca's Abrupt Exit
Rosenior's appointment makes him Chelsea's fourth permanent head coach since the BlueCo ownership took control in 2022. He replaces Enzo Maresca, whose departure on New Year's Day was described as abrupt.
Maresca's exit came after a reported deterioration in his relationship with club bosses and a poor run of form that saw Chelsea win just one of their last seven Premier League games. This left the club 15 points behind leaders Arsenal. It is understood Maresca felt his position had become untenable, while the club had grown concerned over results, media comments, and disagreements with the medical staff.
Rosenior is expected to take charge in time for Chelsea's FA Cup third-round tie away to Championship side Charlton Athletic on Saturday.
